Tulare County Agricultural Landowners Seek Solutions for Groundwater Access Impacting Property Values

In a recent meeting of the Assessment Appeals Board in Tulare County, a pressing issue for local agricultural landowners was brought to the forefront: groundwater access and its significant impact on property assessments. This discussion highlighted the challenges posed by the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), which mandates local agencies to manage groundwater use to prevent over-pumping.

The SGMA, enacted in February 2014, aims to ensure long-term sustainability of water resources. However, it has created hurdles for landowners, particularly those in areas without access to irrigation district water. As water availability continues to influence land values, the county's assessment office is taking proactive steps to ensure property assessments accurately reflect current market conditions.

To gather essential data, the office mailed nearly 11,000 agricultural property questionnaires in January, receiving over 2,000 completed responses. This information is crucial for making informed adjustments to property valuations. Additionally, the office developed a GIS-based web map that overlays parcel data with groundwater sustainability agency (GSA) and irrigation district boundaries. This tool allows for a detailed analysis of how water access affects market rents and property values.

The findings revealed significant disparities in property values, with parcels in areas lacking irrigation access valued, on average, 17% lower than those within irrigation districts. This data-driven approach has led to more accurate assessments, providing meaningful tax relief for many landowners in these affected areas.

As the county continues to collect data, officials anticipate that regional differences in property values may evolve, reflecting ongoing changes in water availability and market conditions. This initiative not only addresses immediate concerns for landowners but also aligns with broader goals of sustainable resource management in Tulare County.